The womb is normally held in place by various tissues including muscle and ligaments. However as a result of childbirth, ageing and the menopause these supports become lax leading to prolapse of the womb and/or the vagina. It is estimated that around half of all women will experience some degree of prolapse particularly after the menopause.
Prolapse usually is uncomfortable particularly towards the end of the day and occasionally can be painful. Some women with a prolapse do not suffer any symptoms and the problem is only discovered when they have an internal examination for some reason.
Most women with prolapse will experience a feeling of fullness or heaviness in the pelvis, and even a sensation of something coming down or out of the vagina particularly when straining. There may be associated urinary or bowel symptoms.
There are a number of options available to treat prolapse. The choice of treatment depends on the degree of prolapse, how severe the symptoms are, your age and health, and whether you are planning on having children in the future.
Due to embarrassment many women put up with the discomfort. However the examination is usually quick and painless. Even simple treatments such as pessaries can lead a considerable improvement in the quality life. Other simple measures such as losing weight, pelvic floor exercise and treating exacerbating factors can also lead to a considerable improvement.
